Monster Hunter Wilds Open Beta 2 Test: How to participate, release date, and features

Even though Monster Hunter Wilds launches at the end of February, you can tune in for an early start with the next beta. Find out how to join the MHW Open Beta 2, including what to expect in gameplay.

How to participate in Monster Hunter Wilds Beta 2

You can participate in the MHW Beta 2 by installing the Monster Hunter Wilds Open Beta file on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, or Steam. Download the file to play during the test’s two phases:

The file should arrive closer to Monster Hunter Wilds Open Beta 2’s launch, so look out for it in the library by then. There don’t seem to be any registration requirements, as the download should be available for anyone who has compatible devices. You don’t need a PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass to participate in the Open Beta, but it will be necessary to play the full version upon MHW’s release.

Image via Capcom

To prepare for the download, ensure your preferred device has a minimum of 29 GB of free space. Steam users should install the latest driver on their PC, specifically for those who use an AMD GPU.

What’s included in the Monster Hunter Wilds Open Beta 2 test?

Monster Hunter Wilds’ second Open Beta test primarily features content from the game’s first-ever test in November 2024. This includes Character Creation, Story Trial, and, of course, monster hunting. If you participated in the first beta, you can look forward to the new Gypceros Hunt. This bird wyvern is a returning creature that first appeared in the original Monster Hunter.

Screenshot via Monster Hunter YouTube

You can carry over your builds from Character Creation to the full game (those who participated in the first beta can also transfer content from here). Once you’ve created your character, you’ll embark on a Story Trial that allows you to experience the game’s opening cutscene and a tutorial for the Chatacabra hunt. Additionally, you’ll unlock the Doshaguma hunt, which can familiarize you more with weapons, monsters, and the Seikret mount.

All progress you’ve made during this time, excluding Character Creation, will not transfer over to the full game. That means you’ll need to start from scratch upon launch. There are a few more surprises for the OB2, but they will be kept under wraps until the beta is released. However, be aware that some issues may come up in your playtest, as there are known problems with performance, weapon mechanics, and game balance. The development team continues to polish these features, which will hopefully be fixed for its official debut.

All Monster Hunter Wilds Beta rewards and how to claim them

Anyone participating in the Monster Hunter Wilds OBT 2 earns the Open Beta Test Bonus Pendant and OBT 2 Bonus Item Pack. It’s crucial to complete your Character Creation for it, or else you may lose out on these exclusive valuables. The pendant provides a decorative animal charm, attachable to your weapon or Seikret. As for the OBT 2 Bonus Pack, here’s what you can expect:

• 10 Raw Meat
• 3 Shock Trap
• 3 Pitfall Trap
• 10 Tranq Bomb
• 3 Large Barrel Bomb
• 5 Armor Sphere
• 10 Flash Pod
• 10 Large Dung Pod

When Monster Hunter Wilds officially releases, use the same platform account you used during the beta to claim these rewards.

Image by Destructoid

Only one pendant and pack can be acquired for each account. However, if you participated in the first beta, you can claim both Beta Test Item Packs from the November and February periods.

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